Sunrise service at Hollywood Bowl canceled

April 2, 2010 12:32:06 AM PDT

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. --

The traditional Easter sunrise service at the Hollywood Bowl has been canceled because of a lack of donations.The nonprofit group that organizes the bowl service says it's all about money, and there has been a big drop in support from donors during the recession. Organizers say the cost of staging the free event is substantial.

The sunrise service began at the bowl in 1921 and attracted between 12,000 and 17,000 worshippers. But in the last two years, attendance has dropped to about 8,000, which means there were less donations collected during the service.

The service has been canceled before but was held at nearby locations.

Bel Air Presbyterian Church will still have Easter services at the Hollywood Bowl at 11 a.m., with the gates opening at 9 a.m.